Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is the U.S. Commercial Service (USCS)?

The U.S. Commercial Service is the trade promotion unit of the International Trade Administration. The U.S. Commercial Service is a global network of 1,800 trade professionals located in more than 250 cities worldwide, dedicated to assisting U.S. exporters and supporting U.S. business interests abroad. In the United States, the U.S. Commercial Service operates an extensive network of Export Assistance Centers that offer companies easy access and efficient response to exporting and international trade inquiries. Overseas, the Commercial Service is present in nearly 80 countries, representing more than 95 percent of the world market for U.S. exports.

Q. Who does the USCS serve?

The U.S. Commercial Service (USCS) primarily serves exporters of U.S. goods and services, particularly small and medium-sized businesses. We have a global network of professional consultants in nearly 300 domestic and overseas offices. Our in-depth counseling includes specific information to help you market your products and services in the global market.

The U.S. Commercial Service in India provides a combination of cost-effective basic and customized services to help you obtain market information, participate in trade events, and identify potential partners. Our commercial specialists have extensive local market expertise and can provide you with comprehensive market analysis and matchmaking assistance in all industries.

Q: I am an American company and want to export to India. Where do I start?

An International Trade Specialist at your nearest Export Assistant Center can assist you to obtain market information and provide information about the wide range of U.S. Commercial Service export promotion programs and services.

Q. How do I obtain information on the Indian market?

The India Country Commercial Guide (CCG) presents an overview of India’s commercial environment, using economic, political, and market analysis. U.S. exporters can also visit Top Markets Series web page for country specific case studies including India on high potential export opportunities in select industry sectors. Commercial Service India also offers customized market research for a fee. For more information, click here.

Q. Which industry sectors offer the best opportunities?

The India Country Commercial Guide (CCG) lists the leading sectors for U.S. exports and investment in India. Access the India CCG for information contained in this comprehensive report.

Aside from the best prospect sectors, U.S. firms should also be aware of opportunities in other sectors of the Indian economy. Contact us for information on the market of opportunities for your particular product or service.

Q. How do I find Indian buyers/distributors/representatives for my product?

The U.S. Commercial Service in India offers a variety of services to help U.S. companies identify potential Indian partners. Our business matchmaking services are designed to help you locate, screen, and meet with potential buyers, representatives, distributors, and joint venture partners or directly contact one of our Commercial Specialists.

Q. How do I establish a company in India?

You will find further information about establishing a company in India in Chapter 3 of the India Country Commercial Guide (CCG), which deals with Selling U.S. Products and Services.

Q. Do any import restrictions apply to my product?

If you would like to identify import duties and taxes applicable to your specific product, please contact us.

If you need counseling from an expert in customs issues, contact us to request a list of Indian customs brokers. Please be advised that the listing of a firm does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Department of Commerce or any other agency of the U.S. Government.

Q. Where can I obtain financial/commercial references for an Indian company?

The U.S. Commercial Service in India can investigate the capabilities, legitimacy and financial strength of your potential Indian business partners. Our report will contain available sales, profit figures, and other background information. Learn more...

Q. How can I obtain a list of trade shows in India?

Participating in local trade shows is an excellent way to contact potential Indian buyers and to gain market exposure. Every year U.S. Commercial Service India supports a number of trade shows and events carefully selected by its team of country experts. Click here to view the current list of local events and Indian buyer delegations to the U.S.

Q. Where can I find a list of Indian business publications to promote my products?

Advertising in local trade publications is an excellent way to gain market exposure for your product or service in India. Please contact us for a list of business publications in your specific industry sector.

Q. Can USCS help me resolve a complaint against an Indian company?

If your firm is having difficulties with an Indian company, please feel free to contact us and provide detailed information about the situation, contact data, and documented proof of unsuccessful attempts at resolving the problem. We will analyze your case and provide assistance accordingly.

Q. I need legal advice. Where can I find a list of law firms in India?

If you need a list of legal firms, pleasecontact us. We can provide you with a list of the major law firms located in major cities in India. Please take into account that the listing of a firm does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Department of Commerce or any other agency of the U.S. Government.

Q. How do I find Indian suppliers?

The U.S. Commercial Service does not help U.S. companies find Indian or other foreign suppliers.